When crisp evenings roll around or camping adventures call, there’s nothing like a bowl of comforting, flavorful Campfire Stew to warm you from the inside out. This rustic one-pot wonder is packed with ground beef, tender veggies, and sweet corn, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. Best of all? It’s easy to make whether you’re cooking over a campfire or on the cozy stove at home.

Read on for the simple, step-by-step recipe, creative variations, and even pro tips to perfect this satisfying meal!

Ingredients for Campfire Stew

Before you get started, gather these ingredients for a hearty, delicious meal. The recipe is flexible, so don’t worry if you need to substitute a couple of items.

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
• 2 cups beef broth (substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 medium potatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1/2 cup green beans
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Optional: sliced corn on the cob for a charming, rustic touch

Substitution Ideas

• Replace beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth.
• No green beans? Add zucchini or bell peppers instead.
• Sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes add a unique twist and a bit of natural sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Campfire Stew is as simple as stirring a pot! Follow these steps for the robust flavor and perfectly cooked ingredients every time.

1. Brown the Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking up any large chunks. Drain excess fat.

2. Build the Base

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, potatoes, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

3. Simmer for Flavor

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow it to simmer for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally, and check the potatoes for tenderness with a fork.

4. Add the Veggies

Stir in the corn, green beans, and peas. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hearty stew into bowls and serve warm. Pair with a side of cornbread, biscuits, or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal!

Why Campfire Stew is Good for You

This crowd-pleasing stew doesn’t just warm you up; it’s packed with nutrients, too.

• Rich in Protein: Thanks to ground beef, Campfire Stew is a great source of energizing protein.
• Loaded with Veggies: Green beans, peas, corn, and tomatoes provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Heart-Healthy Ingredients: Potatoes are high in potassium, which supports heart health, while cumin and paprika bring anti-inflammatory properties.

How to Serve Campfire Stew

• At Home

Serve rustic-style with fresh cornbread, fluffy drop biscuits, or a simple salad on the side.

• While Camping

Accompany with toasted baguette slices or campfire-grilled garlic bread to keep things easy and delicious.

• Beverage Pairings

Pair with a cold beer, a glass of red wine, or a refreshing iced tea.

Easy Recipe Variations

Want to make the Campfire Stew your own? Here are some tasty twists to try.

• Vegetarian Version

Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

• Spicy Kick

Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

• Creamy Style

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or add dollops of sour cream when serving for added richness.

Pro Cooking Tips

1. Don’t Shortcut the Simmer

The longer the stew simmers, the more the flavors develop. Give it the time to shine!

2. Cut Potatoes Evenly

Make sure your potato pieces are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

3. Campfire Hack

Use pre-cooked ground beef (from home) to cut down on cooking time at the campsite.

Storing and Reheating Campfire Stew

• Storage: Allow the stew to cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm over low heat on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if it looks too thick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Veggies

Add the vegetables near the end of the cooking process to keep them vibrant and tender.

2. Skipping the Seasoning

Taste as you go! Adjust spices and salt levels as needed to enhance the flavor.

3. Using Tough or Fatty Ground Beef

Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

A. Yes! Simply brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients (except the peas, corn, and green beans) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, adding the veggies in the last 30 minutes.

Q. Can I prep this stew ahead of time?

A. Absolutely! Prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. On cooking day, simply toss them all into your pot!

Q. Can I make this vegan?

A. Easily! Swap ground beef for a plant-based option, omit the cream (if used), and ensure the broth is vegetable-based.

Try This Hearty Campfire Stew Tonight

Campfire Stew is the perfect staple for chilly days, outdoor adventures, or anytime you’re craving a warm, hearty meal. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.